Relationalism and social networks

Emily Erikson

pp. 271-287

in: François Dépelteau (ed), The Palgrave handbook of relational sociology, Basingstoke, Palgrave Macmillan, 2018

Abstract

Social network analysis is in many ways a perfect method for relational sociology, yet it is not always favored by relationalists. I address some of the theoretical reasons that network analysis may be perceived as problematic by relational sociologists, then suggest a style of network analysis that is consistent with relational sociology. A relational social network analysis should retain an interest in how the context and contents interact with the structure of ties to shape social outcomes of interest. I also suggest that an attention to interactions rather than relations and an emphasis on network dynamics are consistent with relational approaches. Various methods, including multilevel, multiplex, and dynamic network modeling are introduced as innovative means through which a relational sociological agenda may be advanced.